Struggling to Conceive: Common Concerns and Questions

Concerns about wanting to conceive?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my situation.
My husband and I have been trying for the past three months, but I have not been successful in getting pregnant, and my period has arrived as usual.
My menstrual cycle is quite regular, starting on the 17th of each month and lasting for five days, sometimes arriving a day early on the 16th.
I tracked my ovulation and we had intercourse on October 26, 28, and 29.
Today is the 31st, and I took a pregnancy test which came back negative.
Should I wait until my next period is missed to take another pregnancy test for more accurate results? Also, after each intercourse, I tend to notice yellow discharge; could this be a reason for not being able to conceive? Recently, I have been experiencing lower back pain and a feeling of heaviness in my uterus; could this be a sign of something?

Qi Qi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/31

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if your menstrual cycle is consistently 17 or 16 days, your intercourse timing should be at the beginning of the month, as ovulation typically occurs 14 days before your next period.
Therefore, your timing may be off.
Try again for a few months, and if there is still no news, consider visiting a gynecologist for an examination.
Wishing you success in conceiving soon.

Reply Date: 2015/10/31

More Info

Struggling to conceive can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience for many couples. It's important to approach this journey with both patience and knowledge. Based on your situation, let's address your concerns and provide some insights into conception.

Firstly, it's completely normal for couples to take several months to conceive. Many factors can influence fertility, and it’s not uncommon for it to take time, even when everything seems to be in order. The fact that your menstrual cycle is regular is a positive sign, as it indicates that you are likely ovulating regularly. Tracking ovulation, as you have been doing, is an effective way to increase your chances of conception.
Regarding your question about when to take a pregnancy test, the best practice is to wait until after your expected period. Since you mentioned that your menstrual cycle is typically around 28 days, testing a few days after your missed period can yield more accurate results. Home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG, which is produced after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. Testing too early may result in a false negative, as hCG levels may not be high enough to detect.

As for the yellow discharge you mentioned, it is not uncommon for women to experience various types of vaginal discharge throughout their menstrual cycle. This can be influenced by hormonal changes, and while some discharge can be normal, any significant changes in color, consistency, or odor should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Yellow discharge can sometimes indicate an infection, but it is not typically a direct cause of infertility. If you are concerned about this symptom, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

The symptoms of lower back pain and a feeling of pressure in the uterus could be related to ovulation or the menstrual cycle itself. Some women experience ovulation pain, known as mittelschmerz, which can occur around the time of ovulation. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical advice to rule out any underlying conditions.

If you continue to struggle with conception after several months, it may be beneficial to consult a fertility specialist. They can conduct tests to assess both partners' fertility and provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. Factors such as age, lifestyle, and medical history can all play a role in fertility, and a specialist can help identify any potential issues.

In summary, while it can be disheartening to see a negative pregnancy test after trying for a few months, it's essential to remain hopeful and patient. Continue tracking your cycle, and consider waiting until after your next expected period to test again. If you have concerns about your symptoms or if conception does not occur after a year of trying (or six months if you are over 35), seeking professional advice is a prudent step. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and support is available.

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